What does Galatians 1:11 mean?

Explanation

Galatians 1:11 is a verse in which the apostle Paul defends the divine origin of his message, emphasizing that the gospel he preaches is not a teaching of human origin, but rather one that he received through revelation.

Paul is asserting his authority as an apostle and ensures that the teachings he shares are not influenced by other people or popular beliefs, but come directly from God.

In this way, he is emphasizing the purity and authority of his message as being not merely another philosophy or interpretation among many, but a direct transmission of divine truth.

Historical Context

This verse is part of Paul's letter to the Galatians, a group of early Christian communities located in modern-day Turkey. The letter is commonly dated to the mid-first century, around 49-58 AD, which puts it among Paul's earliest epistles.

The verse is part of a larger argument in which Paul is addressing a controversy in Galatia: the influence of Judaizers, who were believers insisting that Gentile converts to Christianity should adhere to Jewish law, including circumcision.

Paul's letter is a response to these teachings, asserting the true gospel of faith in Christ apart from the works of the law.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse supports the doctrine of revelation, which suggests that truth about God is not something humanity can reach on its own but must be disclosed by God.

Different denominations might interpret this in several ways.

For example, in Protestant theology, it may underscore the principle of "sola scriptura," which emphasizes the Bible alone as the authoritative source of Christian doctrine.

In contrast, Catholic and Orthodox traditions might reference this verse when discussing apostolic succession and the authoritative teaching office of the Church.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Galatians 1:11 could encourage individuals to seek divine guidance and wisdom in their lives, recognizing that truth does not always conform to human expectations or reasoning.

It also suggests caution when it comes to embracing teachings or philosophies that claim to be Christian but may not have their roots in divine revelation.

For modern readers, it might also serve as a reminder to assess the authenticity and sources of the spiritual teachings they receive.

Cross-References

• 2 Peter 1:20-21: "Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.

For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost."

• 1 Corinthians 15:3: "For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;"
• Ephesians 3:3: "How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,"

Language Study

The key phrase in this verse is "not after man" (οὐ κατὰ ἄνθρωπον).

The Greek word used for "after" here is κατά (kata), which can signify "according to" or "in agreement with." The word ἄνθρωπον (anthropon) means "man" or "human." Hence, Paul is stating that his gospel is not "according to" or aligned with human standards or origin, but it is of a completely different, divine nature.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the broader context of ancient religions, divine revelation was a concept not unknown. Hellenistic religions often spoke of mysteries revealed to initiates.

However, the Judeo-Christian tradition is distinctive in its emphasis on a universal revelation meant for all peoples, rather than esoteric knowledge for the few. Paul's claim of revelation also contrasts with Greek philosophical traditions that pursued truth through reason and dialogue.

Scientific Perspectives

The verse does not directly intersect with scientific understandings but touches upon epistemology, the study of knowledge, and how humans attain true knowledge.

From a scientific point of view, empirical evidence and reason are foundational.

However, this verse asserts that there is a kind of knowledge, specifically religious truth, that is beyond human discovery and is accessible only through revelation.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have commented on Galatians 1:11:

• John Stott, an evangelical writer, emphasizes that Paul's gospel came to him not by "invention, nor tradition, nor reason, but revelation," highlighting the transcendent source of Paul's message.
• N.T.

Wright, an Anglican bishop and New Testament scholar, highlights how Paul defends the divine revelation against accusations of being man-made, stressing the radicality and novelty of the Christian gospel.

• The Catholic Church, as reflected in the writings of the early Church Fathers, sees Paul’s affirmation as supportive of the belief in apostolic tradition, where the teaching and authority of the apostles come directly from Christ.